David Alnwick Presents 

Charles Dickens’ The Haunted House

It’s not often I get the chance to sit back and enjoy a night of theatre without being involved in the entertainment myself, but last week, I had the absolute pleasure of doing just that. Stepping into The Lantern Theatre an intimate and atmospheric venue that was the perfect setting for an evening of ghostly storytelling I found myself immersed in a world of magic, mystery, and murder.

The evening’s performance was brought to life by none other than David Alnwick, a master magician and storyteller who has spent over a decade captivating audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. His latest show, Charles Dickens’ The Haunted House, was nothing short of extraordinary. Blending theatrical magic with gripping storytelling, Alnwick transformed this classic ghost story into an interactive and unforgettable experience.

A Masterclass in Storytelling and Illusion

The show was structured in two distinct halves. The first part introduced us the compelling and diverse characters, each brought to life with Alnwick’s signature flair. With his expert pacing and command of the stage, he led the audience through a carefully woven narrative establishing intrigue, setting up the supernatural elements, and ultimately building towards a shocking murder that set the entire mystery into motion.

Then came the interval, and with it, one of the most enjoyable aspects of the evening the audience discussion. Everywhere I turned, people were eagerly piecing together the clues, whispering theories, and debating potential suspects. It was a testament to the show’s immersive quality; Alnwick didn’t just perform a story, he pulled us into it.

When the lights dimmed for the second act, the tension in the room was palpable. The plot thickened, the twists kept coming, and just when I thought I had everything figured out Alnwick masterfully unraveled everything in a breathtaking climax. The ending was satisfying, surprising, and left the audience buzzing long after we’d left our seats.

The Perfect Venue for a Perfect Show

It’s impossible to talk about this production without mentioning The Lantern Theatre. This hidden gem of a venue provided the ideal backdrop for a Victorian ghost story. Its intimate setting allowed for a deeper connection between performer and audience, making every moment feel personal and immersive. After experiencing this show, I’m eager to see more performances here—this space was made for storytelling.

Final Thoughts...

David Alnwick has done something truly special with The Haunted House. This wasn’t just a magic show, nor was it just a play—it was an expertly crafted fusion of the two. Every detail, from the writing to the stagecraft, had been meticulously honed to create a production that felt much larger than a one-man show. His ability to seamlessly blend magic, mystery, and narrative is unparalleled, and his passion for the craft shines through in every moment.

If you ever have the chance to see David Alnwick perform, take it. Whether you’re a fan of magic, storytelling, or just a fantastic night of theatre, this show is a must-see.

For more information on David Alnwick and his upcoming performances, visit www.davidalnwick.com. 

To explore future events at The Lantern Theatre, check out www.lanterntheatre.org.uk 

— Blog by Thomas Moloney www.ThomasMoloney.co.uk